…for he [Barnabas] was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And considerable numbers were brought to the Lord. And he left for Tarsus to look for Saul; and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. And for an entire year they met with the church and taught considerable numbers; and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. Acts 11:25-26

Because Barnabas “was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith'“ it is no surprise that he wanted to see the kingdom expand. Barnabas was also wise, so he sought out Saul to help further the work.

Tarsus was a major Roman city in Cilicia. There was a university there that ranked higher academically than Alexandria and Athens. Saul was born there and had returned there after his conversion (Acts 9:30). Barnabas made the two day journey to Tarsus and found Saul. We are not told how Barnabas persuaded Saul to go to Antioch, only that Saul did accompany Barnabas to Antioch. The church in Antioch was played an important role in the missionary expansion of early Christianity. More on that in Acts 13 and following, but for now, note two things about Barnabas’ and Saul’s ministry there:

One, Antioch was gifted with much great teaching. For an entire year, these two notable Christian leaders taught the church—so that church was well taught. Being in a well taught church is a blessing.

Two, it was at Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians. Up until this point, Jesus' followers referred to themselves as brothers, disciples, believers, saints, and those who belonged to the Way. Why Christians? Some contend that it was first a derogatory term imposed by scoffing non-believers. Others believe it was a term carefully chosen by believers. The word “Christian” has as it’s root “Christ,” with the suffix “ian” which emphasizes one’s identification with Christ. It is a fitting term, if it is true. More next time…